ConForce: Computation of configurational forces for FEM results

Abstract

ConForce is a tool for evaluating nodal configurational forces (CF) from FEM results. ConForce supports 2D plane strain and 3D volume elements in a solver-independent manner. Furthermore, large displacements in static load cases are considered. ConForce accesses previously generated and compiled C code from Python via a C code binding. This compiled C code is provided for predefined element types, but can be regenerated for other element types. ConForce also includes an Abaqus plug-in with a graphical user interface. This Abaqus plug-in allows to easily add CF to the Abaqus output file.

Keywords

• Finite element method
• Fracture mechanics
• Configurational forces
• Abaqus